Photo: Curtis Adams
Luxury hotels around the world differ from each other in terms of quality and design as there is no universal international Hotel ranking system. Despite these differences, there are common characteristics that all luxury hotels tend to share. It is these characteristics of a luxury hotel that you should take into consideration when making your booking. So, the next time you are booking a hotel, take a close look at the services each hotel offers to see if they correspond to the following qualities.
- Look at the overall aesthetics and design
One of the most important qualities of a luxury hotel in Manila or any other major city is its distinctive character. Whatever the location, a luxury hotel retains its unique personality and is recognizable immediately after you enter the lobby. You will instantly see and feel the character. Management and other staff will effortlessly handle all appointments and treat guests respectfully. This welcome will give you an idea of the quality of service you can expect.
- Observe the attention to detail
Quality should be evident in all aspects of the hotel. Care and consideration should be given to every detail, from the display at the front desk to the soft and luxurious towels and linens in the bedroom suites. However, this attention to detail will extend beyond your room. In the dining areas, for example, the silverware and the china will be designed to match the aesthetics of the hotel.
Luxury hotels will also aim to match the hotel’s unique charm to the services they offer. For example, they may offer a complimentary car service with a luxurious vehicle.
- Consider the quality of the hotel amenities
So, what can you expect in a luxury-level hotel? Luxurious furnishings in your room or suite include a large comfortable bed with premium linen and comfortable sleepwear. High-end hygiene products and bath cosmetics for your hair and body. Additionally, you'll be able to enjoy high-speed internet and state-of-the-art technology.
Your room will offer a fully-stocked minibar and 24/7 room service with a 5-star menu. Luxury hotels offer a wide range of cuisine and restaurant options, and extensive breakfast buffets. They will also offer spa services, swimming pools, fitness centers, and maybe even tennis courts.
- Think about the quality and range of service
All staff will be trained to provide exceptional service and will be attentive to the most mundane requests. Staff will be readily available and phone calls will be answered promptly. All guests will be served with the utmost care. You will be greeted by name when you arrive and throughout your stay. Staff will quickly recognize your preferences, and when you return to the hotel they will remember these preferences. Staff will make your stay special by prioritizing your comfort and pleasure.
- Everything will be unique and consistent
Luxury hotels get things right every single time so that you can expect consistent high-quality service during every stay. Luxury hotels offer consistent, personalized, and excellent service which comes with a certain price tag. These are the most important qualities that luxury hotels share, and they can help to guide you in your search for the best luxury accommodation.
Photo: Federico De Luca
What Is the Difference Between a Hotel and a Luxury Hotel?
Now, that we know the 5 most distinctive qualities of a luxury hotel, let's try to compare the level of service with regular hotels. The distinction between its two categories goes beyond the basic offering of accommodations. It encompasses a range of factors that collectively contribute to a more indulgent and exclusive experience.
- Service Quality:
Regular Hotel: Provides standard service levels with staff focused on meeting basic guest needs.
Luxury Hotel: Offers personalized, anticipatory, and attentive service. Staff at luxury hotels often go above and beyond to cater to individual preferences and ensure a seamless experience.
- Ambiance and Design:
Regular Hotel: Typically has functional and straightforward designs without significant emphasis on aesthetics.
Luxury Hotel: Boasts exquisite architecture, interior design, and attention to detail. Luxury hotels often feature opulent furnishings, artwork, and carefully curated spaces that create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.
- Culinary Offerings:
Regular Hotel: Provides standard dining options with a focus on practicality and convenience.
Luxury Hotel: Offers diverse and high-quality dining experiences, often collaborating with renowned chefs. Culinary excellence is a hallmark, and guests can expect a range of gourmet options from fine dining to specialty cuisines.
- Amenities and Services:
Regular Hotel: Offers standard amenities such as a fitness center, basic spa services, and standard room features.
Luxury Hotel: Provides exclusive amenities and services, including luxury spa facilities, personalized concierge services, chauffeur-driven cars, and other premium offerings that cater to the unique needs and desires of guests.
- Attention to Detail:
Regular Hotel: Focuses on meeting basic requirements without an emphasis on meticulous details.
Luxury Hotel: Excels in attention to detail, from the quality of linens to personalized welcome amenities and meticulous housekeeping. Every aspect of the guest experience is carefully considered and refined.
- Exclusivity:
Regular Hotel: Primarily caters to a broad range of travelers and may lack a sense of exclusivity.
Luxury Hotel: Creates an exclusive and intimate atmosphere, often with a lower guest-to-staff ratio, ensuring that guests feel privileged and attended to with a high level of individualized care.
- Price Point:
Regular Hotel: Generally more affordable, with a focus on providing practical and functional accommodations.
Luxury Hotel: Commands a higher price point due to the elevated level of service, amenities, and overall experience offered.
Summing up...
Choosing a luxury hotel is not just about finding a place to stay; it's about curating an experience that transcends the ordinary. Impeccable service, exquisite design, culinary excellence, exclusive amenities, and meticulous attention to detail are the key qualities that define a truly luxurious hotel. By prioritizing these aspects in your selection process, you can ensure that your stay is not just comfortable but a memorable journey into the lap of luxury. The next time you embark on a travel adventure, let these qualities guide you to a hotel that transforms your stay into an indulgent and unforgettable experience.
Lots of love,
Liz
